The general avalanche hazard is MODERATE. On north facing aspects above 9,000 feet, persistent slabs lie upon weak snow at the base of the snowpack. These slabs could be triggered by backcountry travelers on steep, avalanche-prone slopes. Skiers and riders might still be able to trigger surface slab avalanches which have the potential to step down and cause failure of the basal weak layer below. The general avalanche hazard is LOW below 9,000 feet and avalanches are unlikely.
Weak, faceted snow persists at the base of the snow pack on northerly and shaded aspects above 9,000 feet. Skiers and riders have the potential to trigger slab avalanches on this layer with depths to three feet. The strength of this layer is hard to predict and failure may occur after a slope has been crossed several times.
( Discussion is generated from the previous day's afternoon forecast. )Expect increasing clouds with a chance of mountain snow flurries as cold air and moisture begin to approach the area from the northwest. Temperatures on Saturday will be in the 20s and winds will be westerly at 15 miles per hour.The general avalanche hazard will continue to MODERATE on steep northerly aspects above an elevation of 9,000 feet and LOW below that elevation. Skiers or riders could trigger dense slab avalanches up to three feet in depth in north facing terrain at the upper elevations. Mostly stable snow exists at the mid elevations. Minimal snow depths and areas of bare ground exist at the lower elevations.
